Almost two years after the tragic death of Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, fresh testimonies have emerged at the Coroner’s inquest, shedding new light on the circumstances surrounding his demise. At the centre of it all is his former record label boss, Naira Marley, who finally testified—virtually. But while he denied any wrongdoing, contradictions in statements and new allegations continue to fuel speculations.
Naira Marley Testifies—Clearing His Name or Deflecting Blame?
During the proceedings before Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi at the Ikorodu Magistrate Court, Naira Marley revealed that Mohbad had signed a deal with his label, Marlian Records, to release four albums. However, the contract was never fulfilled due to ongoing conflicts between Mohbad and his manager, Opere Babatunde.
Dismissing allegations of threats or bullying, Naira Marley referenced a police report that had reportedly cleared him of any involvement in Mohbad’s troubles. Addressing a viral video where Mohbad suggested that if anything happened to him, Marlian Records should be held responsible, Naira Marley downplayed it, saying:
“Mohbad and his parents later regretted that video. It was recorded while he was intoxicated.”
He also claimed that Mohbad’s only real issue was with his manager, not him:
“The only issue he had was with Tunde, his manager. Their fight started from a group chat, which I still have evidence of. I tried to settle their differences, but it got out of hand to the extent that they got physical.”
According to him, he even gave Mohbad the option of replacing his manager, but things escalated further.
“When they got physical, I didn’t report to the police because it was Mohbad that employed Tunde.”
On his relationship with controversial music promoter Sam Larry, Naira Marley insisted:
“I have never threatened Mohbad, neither did I bully him. Sam Larry is a friend to both me and Mohbad. I never instructed him to beat Mohbad. I never cheated him, neither did I exploit him.”
Fear for His Life? Why Naira Marley Requested a Virtual Hearing
One of the most striking aspects of his testimony was his decision to testify virtually. According to him, it wasn’t a coincidence—it was a matter of life and death.
“I requested for a virtual hearing today because of my safety. I have received threats from people saying they will kill me if I ever show up at Ikorodu.”
He further stated that he had not seen Mohbad since the late singer left his record label and was not even in Nigeria at the time of his death.
“Ever since Mohbad left my record label, I never set my eyes on him. I was not in Nigeria when he died. I only came back to Nigeria to support the case.”
But does his absence at the time of death clear him entirely?
Mohbad’s Lawyer Disputes Naira Marley’s Claims
While Naira Marley insisted there were no financial disputes with Mohbad, the late singer’s lawyer, Oluwasanmi Falade, told a different story.
Falade revealed that Mohbad had unresolved issues with Marlian Records regarding unpaid royalties. He testified that he had sent multiple letters to the label demanding payments but never received a response. He also disclosed that the matter was currently in litigation at the Federal High Court.
Beyond financial disputes, Falade recalled an incident where music promoter Sam Larry allegedly assaulted Mohbad at Lekki Beach. According to him, despite attempts by Force Headquarters to arrest Sam Larry twice, the efforts were unsuccessful.
What Happens Next? Court Orders More Witnesses
After listening to the testimonies, Magistrate Shotobi ordered that Sam Larry appear before the Coroner’s Court on April 11. The court also issued a summons for Mohbad’s driver to testify.
Additionally, the pathologist who conducted an independent autopsy on Mohbad was directed to present his findings to the Chief Coroner before the next hearing.
The Big Question: Who Really Holds the Truth?
As the investigation into Mohbad’s death continues, questions remain:
• If there were no issues between Mohbad and Naira Marley, why did Mohbad feel unsafe enough to record that viral video?
• Why was Sam Larry never arrested despite multiple allegations?
• If Mohbad’s royalties were unpaid, what happened to the money he was supposed to earn?
• And most importantly, will justice ever be served in this case?
With so many conflicting accounts, the truth still feels out of reach. But one thing is clear—Mohbad’s death is not a case that will fade into silence.
What do you think? Do you believe Naira Marley’s testimony? And should the authorities be doing more to get to the bottom of Mohbad’s death? Let’s hear your thoughts!
